Parenting

Raising a child is one of the richest and most gratifying experiences any of us will ever have. It is also one of the most demanding. If the process of parenting weren’t hard enough, the cultural norms and expectations of today are much different than they were for our parents.

Whether our relationship with the children in our lives starts at conception, at adoption, when we partner with someone who already has children, or when we find ourselves raising children unexpectedly (e.g. as grandparents); and whether we are raising children alone, as part of a cooperative and collaborative partnership or in the midst of a contentious split, we all need understanding and support as we navigate this most important relationship. Whatever our unique experience with the children in our lives, the parenting and/or step-parenting relationship is enriched if we seek to understand, gain insight, manage expectations and commit to our own growth and well-being, as well as that of our children.

FEAP provides confidential, face to face consultations for caregivers who are seeking to grow in their role as parents or step-parents. Educational seminars on topics specifics to parenting children and adolescents are also provided upon request. Services are designed to provide parents and step-parents with information, education and support, as well as specific tools for navigating the day to day of the ever changing process that is parenting.

Does FEAP see children?

FEAP does not see children. We do however see parents regarding concerns that they may have about their child’s emotional or behavioral health. In addition to providing education and support, FEAP can provide parents and other caregivers with appropriate community referrals for their children.

If in consultation with parents a FEAP consultant determines that an older adolescent, age 16 or above, is likely to benefit from the brief therapeutic services that FEAP can provide, arrangements may be made to see older adolescents on a case by case basis. Because all FEAP services are confidential, in the case where a minor child is seen by a consultant, the parameters of confidentiality will be discussed with both the child and parent(s).

FEAP does see employees’ adult children - age 18 and over. Because FEAP is a confidential service and those age 18 and over are legally considered adults, a parent’s involvement in their adult child’s FEAP service is at the discretion of the adult child. No information about their services can be provided to the parent without a Release of Information or as required by law.

POSITIVE DISCIPLINE

We all want the best for the children. We want them to grow up to lead happy and healthy lives. We also want to enjoy them at each age and stage along the way. There are many books and resources that give guidance and advice, but ultimately we have to be the ones to make the day to day decisions regarding what and how we want to discipline our children. Because our role as parents is so important to us, it can often feel daunting and overwhelming.

FEAP provides confidential, face to face consultations for individuals or couples wanting to address discipline concerns with their children. Educational seminars on understanding and providing age appropriate discipline for our children are also provided upon request. Services are designed to aid parents/caregivers in clarifying their needs and the needs of their children and providing referral to additional resources if desired.